Good Manners for Children

"Mind your manners." How many times did you hear that as a child? And yet how often have you said it to your child? Those two numbers may differ greatly, but why? Living in these modern times is a grand thing and progress has been made in too many areas to name. But teaching and displaying good manners seems to be a forgotten art in this age of electronics and computers. In general, having mannerly conduct involves considering others ahead of ourselves and respecting our differences. Wait...did I say that we have differences? Yes indeed, I most certainly did! Showing courtesy to women is not being sexist and being respectful to our elders is not a sign of weakness. Making appropriate choices in behavior should be taught in childhood, so that these tendencies are ingrained into us as permanently as using a fork or drinking from a cup. Let us take a moment to discuss proper etiquette and common courtesy for children. Perhaps we adults can learn a few things as well!

The first thing parents teach their children is speech. Remember the countless days of trying to coax baby to say "mommy"? Communication is a vital part of our lives and our words have the opportunity to build or destroy relationships. Children need to learn the following rules of using good manners in speech:

1. Say "please" when you ask.
2. Say "thank you" when you receive.
3. Say "pardon me" or "excuse me" when you interrupt conversation, walk in front of someone or commit an indiscretion.
4. Say "I'm sorry" when you may have caused a problem, hurt or inconvenience.
5. Use "ma'am" or "sir" when speaking to your elders.
6. Greet others cheerfully as you become aware of their presence.
7. Speak clearly and make eye contact.